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Horizon Europe

The EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation has a budget of over EUR 95 billion for the period 2021–2027. It offers excellent opportunities for researchers to apply for funding, participate in international collaborations and contribute solutions to global challenges. The programme focuses on scientific excellence, sustainable development and strengthening Europe’s industrial competitiveness.


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The EU Funding & Tenders portal allows you to filter your searches to view relevant calls, track deadlines, read requirements and find potential collaboration partners. You can also apply for and manage your EU grants here.

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One framework programme – three focus areas

This is an overview of Horizon Europe’s three main focus areas, known as the pillars:

Excellent science

The first pillar supports independent research of the highest quality and allows researchers to develop and collaborate internationally.

  • The European Research Council (ERC) funds research in all scientific fields, including multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary projects. Different grants are available depending on whether you are an early-career researcher, more established, or want to explore groundbreaking ideas together with others.
    Find out more about ERC
  • Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) offers support for career development, knowledge exchange and mobility for researchers at all levels. Your department can also attract international talent through postdoctoral grants. 
    Find out more about MSCA
  • Research infrastructures aims to provide Europe’s researchers with access to world-class, sustainable research resources. The programme funds everything from facilities and services to operation and increased accessibility. 
    Find out more about research infrastructures

Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness

The second pillar supports research and innovation that can address major societal challenges and strengthen European industry. To apply for funding, you need to collaborate with other actors in a consortium. 

The calls are divided into six subject areas known as clusters:

  1. Health – improving health and healthcare, from preventive measures to advanced medical technology.
  2. Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Societies – strengthening democratic values, social cohesion and Europe’s cultural heritage.
  3. Civil Security for Society – protecting society from such threats as terrorism, cyberattacks and natural disasters.
  4. Digital, Industry and Space – developing innovations in AI, advanced manufacturing, space research and new technologies.
  5. Climate, Energy and Mobility – promoting sustainable solutions for energy transition, climate adaptation and future transportation.
  6. Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment - supporting sustainable food production, biodiversity and the circular economy.

In addition to these clusters, there are five missions, measures for solving specific societal challenges by 2030.

  1. Adaptation to Climate Change
  2. Cancer
  3. Restore our Ocean and Waters
  4. 100 Climate-neutral and Smart Cities
  5. A Soil Deal for Europe

Find out more about EU Missions


Innovative Europe

This third pillar aims to stimulate breakthrough innovations and strengthen Europe’s innovativeness. It provides support for developing new ideas, technologies and ecosystems for innovation.

  • The European Innovation Council (EIC) focuses on taking innovative ideas all the way to the market. The most interesting EIC instrument for university researchers is Pathfinder, which funds the development of breakthrough deep tech from the lab environment to pre-commercialisation.
    Find out more about EIC
  • European Innovation Ecosystems (EIE) connect local, regional and national innovation actors to create more cohesive, inclusive and efficient innovation ecosystems. 
    Find out more about EIE
  • The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) strengthens innovation by bringing together research, education and business in dynamic partnerships across borders.
    Find out more about EIT

Horizon Europe’s foundation

The three pillars rest on a broad foundation: Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area (ERA).

This foundation is focused on

Latest update: 2025-06-03

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